Lebanon, IL- The Principia Men's Baslketball team traveled to Lebanon IL to take on Division II McKendree University for an exhibition game on Saturday November 24th. The Panthers return from Thanksgiving break to play one last tune up game before conference play begins. After a tough first half Principia locked in and outscored McKendree 35-29 in the second half. Even though the second half was much improved the Panthers still fell 72-55 to a quality McKendree team.
The Panthers struggled in the first half on both ends of the floor. As the struggles began offensively they allowed it to carry over to the defense. Multiple turnovers allowed McKendree to get easy transition buckets and get rolling early. The Panthers' effort never stopped even when falling behind on the scoreboard. Heading into half McKendree held a big lead at 43-20.
The second half was a different story as Principia came out with a purpose to get better each possession. Multiple stops on the defensive allowed the team to open up their offense and find a flow in the game. Clark Davidson flipped the switch in the second half and scored all 11 of his points while grabbing 8 boards while going 5-5 from the line. TreVaughn Goodman also found a groove as he finished with 17 points and 7 rebounds.
The Panthers were able to turn the tide and outscored McKendree 35-29 in the second half with a higher sense of urgency on defense. Ultimately the scoreboard does not reflect the overall effort of the game as Principia loses 72-55 to McKendree.
Good to Know
The Panthers turned in their most efficient defensive performance this season, holding McKendree to 72 points on 43 percent from the field and 35 percent from three, all season lows for the Panther defense. As well as out rebounding the Bearcats 41-36.
Up Next
Principia Men's Basketball team will be home in Elsah, IL to open up conference play against Spalding University at 7pm in Hayfield house.
